Emotional farewell to Josée Panet-Raymond: A chapter at L’Itinéraire ends

Emotional farewell to Josée Panet-Raymond: A chapter at L’Itinéraire ends

Today, July 14, 2025, Josée Panet-Raymond writes her last text as editor-in-chief of L’Itinéraire. After more than ten years in which she directed the fortunes of this important publication, she is withdrawing from her active role with an emotional farewell. She had already decided to retire a year ago and is leaving the organization with a feeling of fulfillment and gratitude for the shared experiences with her colleagues and the Camelots, which she will miss very much. Panet-Raymond describes L’Itinéraire as a large family, all members united by a common history and whose challenges have always driven them.

The last few years have been marked by both challenges and successes. In its first year, the editorial team faced financial and organizational difficulties, but the takeover by new managing director Luc Desjardins in 2016 brought stability. Under his leadership, the team experienced a significant improvement in finances and working atmosphere. Even during the difficult times of the pandemic, the connection with the Camelots remained strong - L'Itinéraire published weekly online during this time, providing the sellers with necessary content.

Challenges and successes

The pandemic presented a major challenge for L’Itinéraire. Many Camelots had to leave the organization while new members joined, which always changed the dynamics of the community. To support the organization's key workers, who are often marginalized and at risk, L'Itinéraire initiated a comprehensive campaign. On March 24, 2023, Camden's Toronto and Montreal offices announced a generous promotional donation of $25,000 to support L'Itinéraire during this difficult time. The organization received a total campaign worth $100,000, made possible through collaborations with media partners such as Outfront and Crackboom. This campaign aimed to raise awareness of the often overlooked sellers and generate quick donations.

The campaign, developed by a multidisciplinary team in less than two weeks, uses innovative formats across various media platforms. The interactive approach on La Presse+ and visibility on over 100 digital displays in stores across Quebec show how creative and committed the organization is to achieving its goals. Luc Desjardins emphasized the importance of the campaign for the sellers and the support they urgently need.

A look into the future

Given the challenges nonprofits face today, it is essential to adapt to new realities. Topics such as digitalization, volunteerism and social responsibility are now more relevant than ever. Organizations like the WHU Center for Non-Profit Management and Social Impact demonstrate the need to develop strategies and expand skills to make social impact sustainable. However, the integration of non-profit perspectives into educational programs and the further training of managers in this area are becoming increasingly important.

Panet-Raymond's successor will be Karine Bénézet, who will continue the business of L'Itinéraire with a breath of fresh air and new ideas. It remains to be seen how the organization will develop in the coming years. One thing is certain: the passion and commitment to the Camelots will continue to be at the heart of their mission. With a strong team and good partnerships, L’Itinéraire is well prepared for the challenges of the future.

In this sense, it is to be hoped that L’Itinéraire remains true to its tradition and resolutely faces the challenges that the world continues to pose to non-profit organizations. Because there is still a lot to do here, and the L’Itinéraire family will continue to stick together to be there for its members and society.

For more information, see the articles from Les Affaires, Camden Publicity and the WHU Otto Beisheim School of Management.